Where Do You Sign on the Back of a Check?
Learn the essential steps for properly signing a check to ensure its validity and secure transfer of funds for deposit or cashing.
Endorsing a check is a process that authorizes the transfer of funds from the check’s writer to the payee. It is a necessary step to deposit or cash a check. Properly endorsing a check helps ensure it can be processed without issues, allowing you to access the money.
Identifying the Endorsement Area
To endorse a check, sign on its back. This designated area is located on the left-hand side when looking at the back of the check. The space may be marked with lines, an arrow, or phrases like “ENDORSE CHECK HERE” or “DO NOT WRITE BELOW THIS LINE.”
Sign clearly within this designated area using dark ink, such as blue or black, for legibility. Some checks may also have a box specifically for mobile deposits, often requiring you to write “For Mobile Deposit Only” below your signature. Banks recommend using permanent ink.
Understanding Endorsement Types
The way you endorse a check determines how it can be used and its level of security. A blank endorsement involves signing only your name. This makes the check payable to anyone holding it, which is the least secure option, as a lost check could be cashed by another person.
A restrictive endorsement limits the check’s use for deposit only. You would write “For Deposit Only” followed by your signature and your account number. This enhances security by ensuring it can only be deposited into a specific account.
A special endorsement allows you to transfer the check to another person or entity. You would write “Pay to the Order of [New Payee’s Name]” followed by your signature.
Handling Specific Endorsement Situations
When a check is made out to multiple payees, the wording between their names dictates the endorsement requirement. If the check says “and” (e.g., “John AND Jane Doe”), both payees must sign the check. If it says “or” (e.g., “John OR Jane Doe”), either payee can endorse it individually.
If your name is misspelled, you should endorse it with the incorrect spelling first, exactly as it appears on the front. Then, sign with your correct legal name directly below it.
In rare cases where no clear endorsement area is present, sign on the back near the top edge. Ensure no vital information like routing or account numbers is obscured.